Terms of Service
Last updated October 27, 2025
By using my First Mate Cruise Booking Services and/or my Custom Travel Planning Services, you agree to the following terms:
1. First Mate Cruise Booking Services (No Fees)
As a First Mate with Virgin Voyages, I provide cruise booking services at no additional cost to you. This includes:
- Cabin selection assistance
- Important information and reminders via email
- Up to two (2) scheduled price drop checks at key dates based on your cruise departure; additional price checks upon request
- Pre- and post-cruise hotel booking at Virgin embarkation and disembarkation ports.
- Travel insurance quotes and booking (third party providers, not Virgin Voyages)
- Support before, during, and after your cruise via email, WhatsApp, and scheduled phone calls.
- RockStars & Mega RockStars: done-for-you dining reservations
- Formal Groups of 8+ cabins: coordination of (1) dinner included in group benefits
While I work for you and not Virgin Voyages, you are still bound by Virgin Voyages’ policies and contracts, including:
- Virgin Voyages Ticket Contract
- Additional Terms & Conditions
- Shore Things Terms & Conditions
- Sailor Conduct Policy
1.1 Pre- and Post-cruise Hotel Booking
All requests for hotel booking All hotel rates are refundable and include price monitoring with automatic re-booking if price drops. Hotel rates start at $350/night average and may include exclusive perks. I will accept requests for hotel booking up to 4 months before departure.
2. Custom Travel Planning Services (Fee-Based)
For clients who want custom travel planning (pre-/post-cruise extensions, land-based vacations, etc.), a planning fee may apply. This fee is based on:
- Complexity of the itinerary
- Number of travelers
- Length of travel
2.1 Custom Travel Planning Inclusions
- Premium Economy, Business, and First Class flight booking
- Hotels at any destination (not just port destinations), no minimum nightly rate
- Private transfers for individuals, couples, and groups
- Private tours and non-cruise line excursions
- Tickets to attractions, shows, and events
2.2 Fees & Booking Window
- Minimum Planning Fee: $350
- Advance Booking Requirement: Custom travel planning must be requested at least 4 months before the trip start date. I do not accept custom travel requests within 4 months of departure.
- Final Bookings Deadline: Client must decide and approve all bookings up to 60 days prior to departure. I am not able book tours, transfers, flights, hotels, etc within 60 days of the trip start date.
- Non-Refundable Fees: Once I present a preliminary proposal itinerary, the planning fee is non-refundable. However, if you cancel before I do any work, I will refund the fee.
2.3 Booking & Responsibilities
Your custom travel plan includes:
- Research & recommendations
- Options and price quotes
- A detailed itinerary ready to book
You are never obligated to book anything from the custom itinerary I prepare.
If I book the custom itinerary it for you:
- I will confirm all reservations and ensure everything runs smoothly.
- You are still subject to each supplier’s policies (cancellation, refunds, etc.).
If you book the itinerary yourself:
- You are responsible for confirming bookings, understanding supplier policies, and ensuring everything is in place.
All booking payments are made directly to the supplier(s) unless otherwise specified in the itinerary. Client will be required to provide a credit card (via secure link) for agency to make payments on approved bookings.
2.4 Communication & Timeliness
To ensure smooth planning, you must:
- Provide necessary information promptly
- Review and respond to proposals in a timely manner
- Make decisions within reasonable timeframes
- Approve and confirm with payment all elements of the trip before 60 days from departure.
If you fail to provide feedback after receiving the initial proposal, the planning fee remains non-refundable.
2.5 Final Notes
- You are never obligated to book anything from my custom travel plan.
- My goal is to make your trip stress-free and amazing, so let’s work together to make it happen.
